Coimbatore Professor Defrauded of ₹96 Lakh in Sophisticated Online Trading Scam
In a distressing case of cyber fraud, a 50-year-old professor employed at a private college in Coimbatore has been swindled out of a staggering ₹96 lakh in an elaborate online trading scam. The incident, which unfolded over November and December 2025, highlights the growing threat of digital investment frauds targeting unsuspecting individuals.
How the Scam Unfolded: From Advertisement to WhatsApp Group
The victim, a resident of Periyar Nagar in Ramanathapuram, Coimbatore, first encountered the fraudulent scheme in November 2025. He came across an online advertisement that aggressively promoted high returns on investment, sparking his interest. After contacting the number provided in the ad, he was promptly added to a WhatsApp group named 'Shoonya V917 Rising Bulls'.
Within this group, members consistently shared positive feedback and testimonials about their investment successes, creating an illusion of legitimacy and trust. The professor, convinced by the seemingly genuine endorsements, decided to proceed with the investment opportunity.
The Financial Fallout: Nine Transactions Totaling ₹96 Lakh
Between November and December 2025, the professor made a series of nine separate transactions, transferring a total of ₹96 lakh to various bank accounts specified by the fraudsters. The promised high returns, however, never materialized. As time passed, he realized he could neither retrieve his invested amount nor access any profits.
This realization marked the turning point, leading him to understand that he had fallen victim to a meticulously orchestrated scam designed to exploit his trust and financial aspirations.
Legal Action and Investigation Underway
Upon recognizing the fraud, the professor promptly filed a formal complaint with the Coimbatore City Cybercrime Police. The authorities have registered a case and initiated a thorough investigation into the matter. This case underscores the critical need for vigilance when engaging with online investment platforms, especially those promoted through unsolicited advertisements and social media groups.
Key Takeaways from This Incident:
- Online investment scams often use persuasive tactics, such as fake testimonials in closed groups, to appear credible.
- Individuals should exercise extreme caution when approached with unsolicited investment opportunities promising unusually high returns.
- Verifying the legitimacy of financial platforms through official channels is essential before committing any funds.
- The Coimbatore cybercrime police are actively working to trace the perpetrators and prevent similar frauds in the future.
